Handy Mountain Gear Checklist that you need to read!

Snow sports is a lot of fun, but lets face it, when your un-prepared, and conditions turn to custard, often your day can get very uncomfortable, and may even result in ending your day early.

Simply follow the guide and tips below to maximize your enjoyment up the mountain. 

"Skiers, Boarders & Players alike- these are the essentials you need"

We recommend having just about everything in this list. You will probably use most the stuff on this checklist- but even if you don't, trust me, one day when you actually need it-you will be thanking me. We recommend taking a backpack to store everything in.

• Sunscreen

• Lip balm

• Warm, snowproof gloves

• Snow Goggles

• Snow Proof Warm Jacket

• Snow Proof Warm Pants

• Socks

• Headwear: helmet, beanie- something to keep your head covered.

• We recommend wearing thermal pants and top + jersey & loose pants. But the amount of layers will vary depending on conditions up the mountain. Pack it and take it with you, and if you get up there and you don't need it, you can just leave it in the car or pack.

• Money

• ID- especially if your a kid that looks over 18. Take your ID to get youth prices

• Phone, medication, carkeys- other essentials that you personally need. 

If your skiing, make sure you also have...

• Skis

• Ski Boots

• Poles

• Neck Warmer, Balaclava, Multi functional Head wear

If your snowboarding, make sure you also have...

• Snowboard

• Snowboard Boots

• Wristguards

• Neck Warmer, Balaclava, Multifunctional Headwear

If your just going for a play in the snow...

• Make sure you have some waterproof, warm walkboots. Gumboots don't last long in snow. They get cold very quickly.

• Take a sled/toboggan (optional, but heaps of fun)

• Carrot (because no snowman is complete without a nose)

You may think this is alot of gear, but the weather is a roulette up the mountain. One minute sunny, next its raining. Reports are not always 100% accurate, but make sure you always check them before you go up.

Extra tips you need to know...

• If you have kids, try and get them out of rental gear before leaving the mountain, as they will most likely fall asleep in the car ride - and we want to keep the peace

• When it comes to buying passes for Mt Ruapehu, there a range of passes and lessons for you to chose from. Just visit Mtruapehu.com to purchase these online.